Municipal Cemeteries Update

As growth continues in North Perth, the Municipality would like to provide an update on the new cemetery development on the westerly outskirts of Listowel.

With the municipality’s growing and aging population, combined with the limitations of Fairview Cemetery, a new cemetery site was identified as a need for North Perth. Because of this need and other growth factors, the Municipality acquired 100 acres of land at 8127 Road 165 in 2007 and designated a portion for a new cemetery development.

Since the planning of the new cemetery began, burial trends have shifted considerably. An increased proportion of the population are choosing cremation over burial. This trend has increased the lifespan of Fairview Cemetery. It is estimated that Fairview Cemetery has a current remaining lifespan of approximately 30 years based on current trends, with 750 sellable prime burial plots available. It is predicted that the new cemetery will become active in 10-15 years.

In the meantime, work will continue on the new cemetery development to prepare it for operation. Site fill and grading work has continued throughout 2017. The driveway entrance into the site has been constructed through the Road 165 Reconstruction project. Through the reconstruction, Road 165 is now better able to accommodate higher levels of traffic.

To address the increased interest in cremation, the North Perth Cemetery Board is planning to move forward with Phase 3 of the Cremation Gardens in Fairview Cemetery. The new Cremation Garden will be located in the current flat marker section of Fairview Cemetery that has been less popular for plot purchase. Phase 3 of the Cremation Gardens will be similar in design to the current Cremation Garden area.

Updates are also planned next spring for Donegal Cemetery. The cemetery sign will be refurbished, including new pillars and stonework, as well as repainting of the iron gates and sign.

In an effort to further beautify the municipality’s public spaces and give the public an opportunity to pay tribute to a person, organization, or occasion, North Perth has recently introduced the Commemorative Bench & Tree Program.

Through this program, the public can donate a commemorative bench or tree to be placed in designated areas throughout North Perth, including cemeteries. The donation of a bench or tree is tax deductible. For more information on the Commemorative Bench & Tree Program, visit northperth.ca or contact the Community Development Coordinator at 519-292-2043.